Iodine-131 Dose from Soviet Nuclear Tests

Abstract

Observed concentrations of iodine-131 in human thyroid glands and milk in New York City for the period October 9 to December 18, 1961, are reported in order to show the effects of nuclear tests during this period. The first measurements were made about five weeks after the start of testing and about 10 days after iodine-131 was first observed in dairy products in New York City. The accumulation of iodine-131 in human thyroids was observed by in vivo procedures and dissection methods. The human thyroid burdens are shown to be above 10 pC/g, higher than normal, for the milk-drinking portion. (N.W.R.)